I’m sick of the media portraying 2013 as a degrading year for women in music. Blurred Lines and Miley Cyrus did not help “the cause” but we seem to have ignored the positive messages that came out of some of this year’s top tunes. Here are just a few of the powerful messages, sung by some very powerful women:

You can be amazing. You can turn a phrase into a weapon. (Sara Bareilles, Brave)

No one can hold me back. I ain’t got time for that. (Kelly Clarkson, Catch My Breath)

You can take my wings but I’m still gonna fly. (Janelle Monae, Q.U.E.E.N.)

This girl is on fire. (Alicia Keys, Girl on Fire)

Crazy women are made by crazy men. (Brandy Clark, Crazy Women)

We’re bigger than we ever dreamed…Life is great, without a care. (Lorde, Royals)

I am the champion and you’re gonna hear me roar. (Katy Perry, Roar)

No time to quit now. Just time to get it now… you better work. (Britney Spears, Work Bitch)

You’re gonna miss me when I’m gone. (Anna Kendrick, Cups)

You won’t me down on Earth, but I’m up in space… I DON’T CARE. (Icona Pop, I Love It)